The Temperatures Drop, but a Winter Cycling Vacation is Always Possible
All you need to do is get properly equipped, dress to stay dry and warm, and choose the right destination.
Here are five cycling trips in Italy during the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, from North to South.
1- The Thermal Cycle Route and Riolo Terme
Explore the inland of Emilia-Romagna along a 60km cycle route that connects charming villages and thermal spas. In Riolo Terme, you can combine physical activity with wellness treatments and visit highlights like the splendid fortress that was once the home of Caterina Sforza. Just 15km away, along the route, you’ll find Brisighella, a town rich in tradition, history, and architectural beauty. Recognized as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in Italy” and awarded the Orange Flag by the Touring Club Italiano, it offers unique attractions like the “Donkeys’ Alley,” a covered elevated road from the 12th century, once used by gypsum carriers. In Brisighella, don’t miss the opportunity to taste local delicacies like cold cuts and the prized DOP olive oil, best enjoyed raw on the Moretto artichoke that grows exclusively here.
After Brisighella, you can return to Riolo Terme via Imola or ride for about an hour through gentle hills and green landscapes to reach the medieval village of Modigliana. This village is home to many historical buildings, including the Rocca dei Conti Guidi, and is famous for its potato tortelli. For those seeking wellness & positive sport, special programs are available in Riolo Terme.
Grand Hotel Riolo Terme
2- Rome and the Liri Valley
This is a new cycling route that follows the Liri River, spanning from Abruzzo to southern Lazio and crossing through Ciociaria. The journey centers around Isola del Liri, a town famous for its waterfall and rich in industrial archaeology. Here, various cycling routes converge, including “From Source to Mouth,” a backbone cycle route perfect for daily excursions, guided tours, and scenic exploration.
In three days, you can cover the route starting from Capistrello in Abruzzo. Day one offers a visit to Sora, the hometown of Vittorio de Sica, with its unique old town and the Abbey of San Domenico.
Day two takes you to Cassino, with a challenging 65km ride featuring notable elevation gains (an e-bike makes it manageable). Highlights include Civitavecchia d’Arpino, famous for its Cyclopean Walls, and a descent to Arpino with its statue of Marcus Tullius Cicero.
Day three explores WWII history at the Historiale Museum, Montecassino Abbey, and the Gustav Line. From Cassino, the river is renamed Garigliano and flows to Minturno, the final destination on the Ulysses Riviera.
More details: www.liris.bike/tour/
Liri River
3- Abruzzo – Trabocchi Cycle Network
The Trabocchi Cycle Network smartly integrates existing routes, offering cyclists connections between the coastline and countryside with both sea and Maiella views.
The network includes river routes, scenic gravel roads, and less-traveled paths. You’ll find intersections with the Cammino di San Tommaso, rugged trails for MTB enthusiasts, and paths leading to valleys with ancient water mills. Don’t miss a walk to the Acquabella Nature Reserve or a visit to local olive mills and the Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere.
More info: reteciclabiletrabocchi.it
Trabocchi Coast
4- Matera and the Rock Churches
Explore Matera, the city of Sassi, by bike through its alleys, admiring rock-hewn buildings and mid-century districts. Along the way, enjoy local wood-fired bread, market delicacies, and cultural landmarks like Matera Cathedral and the belvedere of Sant’Agostino.
Head to the Park of the Rock Churches, home to over a hundred churches adorned with frescoes. On the return trip to Matera, visit the La Palomba Sculpture Park, a former quarry turned contemporary art exhibit.
Tours and more: www.materaturismo.it
Matera by Bike
5- Salento
Salento offers a flat, 210km route perfect for beginners, starting and ending in Lecce, with stops at small villages, coastal gems, and historic sites. Highlights include:
- Oasis Le Cesine and the Alimini Lakes near Otranto.
- Santa Maria di Leuca, home to Punta Palascìa Lighthouse.
- Coastal and inland treasures near Gallipoli, including hypogean oil mills and Baroque towns like Nardò.
For more inspiration: viaggiareinpuglia.it
Salento, Torre Lapillo
